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4 COMMON EYE CONDITIONS TO BE AWARE OF

Editorial Team
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4 COMMON EYE CONDITIONS TO BE AWARE OF

You should always look after your peekers. We’ve already covered our top eye health tips and how to keep your eyes healthy in winter, but to really drive home the message, we think it’s important to know about the wide variety of eye conditions that affect the UK population. Some are relatively common, whilst others are quite rare. In the U.K, the most prevalent eye conditions are glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. By being aware of these conditions, as well as attending regular eye examinations, you can ensure you are taking all the precautions necessary to avoid their development.

MACULAR DEGENERATION

This condition can affect individuals of all ages, but in people over 60, it is the leading cause of sight loss. Macular degeneration causes issues with the central vision, which can become blurry or distorted. This means that if you suffer from this condition you might look at someone sideways and not be able to see fine details. Over a long period of time, it can lead to a completely blank patch in the central vision, however, some people can retain side vision. You are at higher risk of developing this condition if you smoke and lead an unhealthy lifestyle.

GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is a condition that’s often hereditary which, if not treated daily with eye drops, can lead to blindness. It causes damage to the optic nerve due to changes in eye pressure and can lead to loss of peripheral vision, which means those who suffer from this condition may not see people or things approaching them from the side on. Often those who develop glaucoma are unaware that anything is wrong, but it can be detected with an eye examination. Those who are over the age of 40 or have a close family relative who suffers from glaucoma are allowed a free eye test each year to ensure they can pick up on any arising issues as soon as possible.

DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes affects all the major organs of the body, especially the eye. This condition causes the central vision to become patchy which can lead to difficulty in reading and driving. Over 35% of people with type 1 diabetes and around 20% of those with type 2 diabetes will develop some form of diabetic retinopathy. It’s the greatest cause of sight loss for those under 60 within the United Kingdom. However, most cases of type 2 diabetes are preventable, so those who control their blood sugars, maintain a healthy weight, and stop smoking will reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and reduce the chance of developing sight loss associated with diabetic retinopathy.

CATARACTS 

This is an extremely common eye condition that is typically caused due to the ageing process. Cataracts develop slowly and can lead to change in colour vision, blurred vision, and sensitivity to glare. The treatment for cataracts is a simple operation, which is usually conducted under local anaesthetic. The natural cloudy lens is removed and a plastic one inserted during the operation. Some people can reduce their chance of developing cataracts by taking some simple precautions, which include wearing sunglasses, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy diet.

In order to reduce your risk of obtaining some of these conditions and catching them earlier for better treatment, it’s important to attend regular eye examinations. The NHS recommends you have an eye examination once every two years in order to maintain the health of your eyes. Remember that a healthy lifestyle is also a high contributing factor to the avoidance of these conditions. If you notice any changes in your vision or pain in your eyes, then you should seek medical attention right away. Don’t wait and don’t take your eyesight for granted.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO ADD THE FEEL GOOD FACTOR TO YOUR HOME

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO ADD THE FEEL GOOD FACTOR TO YOUR HOME

The first shoots of spring aren’t far away and with it, our mood seems to be shooting skywards in tandem. It’s time to ride this crest of optimism by getting your home ready to embrace the positive vibes fully. We at IDEAL think it’s folly to assume it’s plain sailing and sunny days from here on in (as the recent bout of snow confirmed) and you can never have too much ‘cosy’ anyway, so the following really is a guide for all seasons. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to add the feel good factor to your home.

SCENTED CANDLES & FLOWERS

First impressions are the most lasting, as they say, and the first thing that strikes you when you enter a house is not the interior design or decor, but the aroma – whether that is pleasant or noxious is down to you. Fall on the former side by lighting scented candles and keeping fresh flowers, bringing fragrance to your home (and covering all manner of sins, too). Not only will this imbue your domestic space with a beautiful bouquet, but the flicker of the flame and mood alleviating properties of perennial plants will keep the feel good factor well and truly burning, constantly.

SOFT FURNISHINGS

After a long and gruelling day at the coalface, there’s nothing which keeps morale higher on the commute home than the prospect of sinking into a cushiony cuddle. Abundant pillows, throws, cushions and blankets all add a sense of both homeliness and luxury to your house, and require little effort to maintain. If you want to reinvigorate your decor, you can simply change up the cases to reflect a change in mood or season.

A WOOD BURNING STOVE

Nothing will make you want to hunker down in comfort and says ‘home’ more than an open fire. But those guys can be high maintenance, messy and not especially frugal in terms of fuel efficiency. Wood burning stoves are a more than viable alternative, offering the warmth of a real fire, plus the gorgeous aroma of gentle smoke and giving the house a focal point. They’re a great statement piece, that’s for sure, and when lit, create an unbeatable feeling of coziness. To add to the ambience, consider stacking some seasoned logs beside the stove to really bring your house that feel good factor. Not only will you not have to stumble outside to stoke your fire, but a stack of firewood looks pretty stylish too and is an effective feature piece in itself. You can find firewood for sale online from various websites to create a stack.

LIGHT AND SHADE

Did you know that dingy and drab environments can make you feel listless and down whereas rooms with great lighting can improve our mood? Here at IDEAL we’re obsessed with getting the lighting just right. It can instantly transform a room from sterile to snug at the flick of a switch. The first place to start is by maximising the amount of natural light in your home, and this is best done with mirrors. Hang a large one in front of a window to reflect the light and views; not only will it make your room brighter, but it will also make it appear bigger. Layered lighting, which is all about combining different lights to create a particular mood or feel, can instantly make your house a home. From side lamps illuminating a dark corner to flickering candles creating a warm glow, there are loads of different ways to achieve this. Dimmer switches are also fantastic when layering; you can choose the amount of light you want in the room, depending on what activity requires illuminating, as well as your mood.  By combining these clever lighting options, you can bring about the domestic feel good factor all year round.

ARTWORK & BOOKS

According to studies, exercising our creativity can give our pent-up stress an outlet and bring escape from the monotony of our daily routines. This not only helps us express our emotions, it also boosts our happiness levels too. From this we can deduce that if we really want to add the feel-good factor to our homes, artwork and books are a must. Art and books have been shown to make you feel happy, and they bring a really cool, sophisticated feel to the domestic space. Perfect.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR A LONG-TERM ADVENTURE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR A LONG-TERM ADVENTURE

The best way to travel is to travel slow. You get to truly explore a destination, get to know its people, culture, and history. You can find local haunts and can make real opinions about it. Slow travel is how you can travel, work, and still have more than enough time to explore. It’s great for the environment, it’s great for the economy, and it’s great for you. Slow travel encourages you to enjoy the journey, from start to finish, and can make any vacation a great one.  

When slow-travel is combined with a long-term trip, however, you open yourself to change. You welcome your ideology, your perception of the world, and even your own personality to be challenged. Long-term travel can be mentally and physically exhausting, which is why it’s unlike any other vacation you’ve had before. Long-term travel is a feat, which is why you must prepare by:

GET IN SHAPE 

Planning on trekking through the jungle in South America? Want to climb that mountain in Nepal or walk up those hundreds of steep steps to that temple in Thailand? Then a little pre-trip physical preparation will make your trip so much better. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to not get into shape before you start your long-term trip. While yes, it isn’t a prerequisite, you will be more active than you have been before. New experiences are mentally exhausting, and if your body can’t keep up, then you can find you crash very easily. While the nature of slow travel does allow you to take a day to yourself, you want to be fit and healthy enough to enjoy the trip for all that it is, rather than how exhausted you are.

Tip: 6 – 8 weeks before your trip, visit your local GP to get any vaccinations or health advice for the country or countries you are visiting.

BE CONFIDENT IN YOUR ABILITIES 

Depending on the kind of trip you are going on, you might want to consider enrolling in a few survival classes. These courses can help you prepare to trek a mountain, can teach you how to camp, and so on. For more urban travel being able to communicate even rudimentarily can be a huge help.

BE CONFIDENT IN YOURSELF

It takes a huge amount of confidence to travel within your own country, much less a country where a foreign language is spoken. That is why one of the more underrated steps to preparing for a long-term trip is to become more confident in yourself. Start with facing your harshest critic, and find a solution to things you have long been insecure about. Acne scars can be faded with laser technology, for instance, or if you are insecure in the bedroom, you can visit www.penisenlargementreviews.org and find the best natural therapy option for you. Be happy in your own skin, and you can take on the world.

KNOWING WHAT TO PACK

Long-term travel is inherently different than any other trip you have been on, which is why it’s okay to buy items specifically for it. Thermal base layers, a strong backpack, and even a travel wardrobe of durable clothes are all excellent things to pack on a gap year. The specific items you should bring, of course, will vary depending on your destinations, which is why you should read up on what other travellers recommend and plan accordingly.

Long-term travel is the best way to see the world, because it is only by enjoying the journey that you can not only learn and experience a place, but can change for the better as a person.

10 IDEAL MASCARPONE RECIPE IDEAS

Joseph Gann
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10 IDEAL MASCARPONE RECIPE IDEAS

Mascarpone. We say the word out loud with some trepidation, waiting for someone to pounce and correct us. Are the final two syllables a small breed of horse or a famous Chicago mobster, or something else entirely? And then there’s the categorisation. Most would head for the cheese aisle to get their fill of its creamy, unctuous goodness. The pedants among us though, would have us consulting the production and manufacturing process and insisting it’s a yoghurt.

While the pronunciation and labelling may divide the culinary crowd, what’s certainly not up for debate is that it’s good damn delicious, and versatile as hell. With that in mind, here are 10 IDEAL mascarpone recipe ideas.

FRUIT MOUSSE

This recipe is sugar free, has only three ingredients and is ready in less than five minutes. Get the best cheese to make the most of this desert. Cello’s Thick and Smooth is one of the top mascarpone brands which contains organic cow milk.

  • Cut half a pint of strawberries in small pieces.
  • Turn the cheese (8 ounces) into a cream by blending it with a manual mixer. Add a cup of whipping cream during the process. You can also add a few vanilla-flavored stevia drops.
  • Add a layer of strawberries in a glass.
  • Pour a layer of mascarpone mousse above the strawberries.
  • Finish with a layer of blueberries (half a pint).

SPINACH SPAGHETTI

This fast an easy recipe is ideal for a midweek dinner of two. It only takes 15 minutes and the result is an enjoyable, nourishing bowlful. Feel free to get creative by adding extra spices, herbs and seasoning to the dish.

  • Mix ½ cup of mascarpone cheese, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, pepper, salt and a bit of nutmeg (1/4 teaspoons) in a bowl.
  • Cook pasta (½ pounds) al dente and save ½ cup of the pasta water. You will need it later.
  • Place pasta back in the pot on low heat and add the above sauce. Continue with 5 cups of spinach until it wilts.
  • Add half of the pasta water and mix until the spinach is made.
  • Place the food in plates and add a few hazelnuts and some parma ham if you wish

VANILLA SMOOTHIE

You can prepare a delicious and sweet smoothie in less than 10 minutes with this guy below. The smoothie is fat burning and completely natural.

  • Mix 2 large egg yolks, ½ cup of mascarpone cheese, 4 ice cubes, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, ¼ cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of your favorite sweetener.
  • Blend until the drink is smooth.
  • Top with whipped cream.

LOW-CARB CREPES

The recipe for 4 crêpes takes 15 minutes to prepare and only requires a handful of ingredients. And just like that, you’ll have a healthy breakfast or brunch that is easy to cook and is lighter than regular pancakes.

  • Mix two large eggs or three regular ones, ¼ cup of mascarpone cheese, a tablespoon of regular flour or organic powder and a pinch of sea salt in a blender.
  • Heat a slightly greased pan and add ¼ cup of the mix for a crêpe.
  • Cook for 2 minutes. Flip when bubbles form at edges.
  • Cook for one minute on the other side until the crêpe becomes golden. Continue.
  • Top with sliced oranges for your daily dose of vitamin C, nuts for texture and a drizzle of honey.

MELTED TOAST

A breakfast belter, this one.

  • Spread mascarpone on your toast.
  • Add a small layer of honey or agave nectar.
  • Continue with a drop of sea salt.
  • Additionally, you can add cocoa or chocolate powder for a sweeter finish.

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR VEGGIES

This recipe is so simple that you’ll want to eat it with all your favorite vegetables. We like this aubergine recipe the most, but it would work equally well with peppers, courgette or tomato.

  • Heat your oven and roast aubergine until it blisters.
  • Remove it and pour mascarpone on top of the eggplant.
  • Add fresh mint to the dish.

CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

You can cook around 30 truffles in just 30 minutes with the below recipe. Filling and coating this dessert is easy and enjoyable; a great activity to do with the kids we think!

  • Mix ½ cup of coconut butter, ½ cup of mascarpone cheese and 1/3 cup of powdered sweetener or brown sugar on medium heat.
  • Remove the pan from the cook and 1/3 cup of whey powder and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix.
  • Shape the result into balls and leave them in the fridge to chill for 2 – 3 hours.
  • Blend 4 oz. of chocolate, 1 oz. of cocoa butter and tablespoons of sweetener and boil until everything melts.
  • Take the mix out of the cook and add vanilla extract.
  • Dip the above chilled balls in this mix and store them in the fridge.

CREAMY MANGO

How about a dessert of your favorite fruit with a touch of fresh cheese? This recipe takes as many minutes as you can count on your fingers and thumbs, and no more. In other words, it’s quick.

  • Quickly fry a diced mango in butter with a tablespoon of brown sugar.
  • Remove the mango from the pan.
  • Add a drop of mascarpone and let it melt.

PIZZA WITH A TWIST

You will need a ready made pizza base for the below dish, or you could make your own, of course. Using mascarpone and not using tomato sauce makes for a refreshing, less rich version of the Italian classic.

  • Bake the pizza crust halfway in the oven.
  • Add mascarpone.
  • Top with red onion, mushrooms, thyme, salt, pepper and olive oil.
  • Return the pizza to the oven until its crust becomes golden brown.

MASHED POTATO

This is a refreshing substitute to your regular mashed potatoes, which would be heavy on the cream, butter or both. The recipe takes around 15 minutes and works with any meat or fish.

  • Boil 5 – 6 potatoes for two servings.
  • Crush them with a potato masher.
  • Add salt and ½ cups of mascarpone to the mix.
  • Continue with your favorite ingredients.

IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

Editorial Team
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IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

Procrastination is the enemy of many folks that want to sit down and focus on their work, studies or virtually anything in life. No matter what you’re doing right now, you could start procrastinating at any point and thus slow down your work. All it takes is a message from a friend on your phone and your focus will spiral out of control and you’ll start looking at something completely unrelated to what you were doing before.

REMOVE DISTRACTIONS

Find out what distracts you when you’re working or studying. Do you find yourself singing along to songs? Turn off the music and put on something more relaxing. Are you constantly on your phone? Lock it in a drawer and turn on silent mode. Constantly snacking? Eat a meal before you work to beat cravings. Distractions are the main cause of procrastination and you need to find ways to get rid of them as best as you can.

START SLOWLY

Start your tasks slowly. Don’t rush ahead and dive into the deep end. Slowly work yourself up to the task that you have to do. Once you get the ball rolling, you’ll find it becomes much easier to focus on your work and get things done quickly.

BE REALISTIC

Set realistic goals for yourself. Are you studying for exams? Don’t expect to go through a thick textbook in just 2 hours. Make sure you set realistic expectations so you’re not constantly disappointing yourself. Take a look at the following infographic for more information and some helpful tips to give you a boost in productivity.

Design from Urbanest

5 IDEAL REASONS YOU SHOULD ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP AT NIGHT

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS YOU SHOULD ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP AT NIGHT

We’ve all been there – you’ve just got into bed, you’re feeling all cosy and warm, until you realise you’ve still got a full-face of makeup on. To take off or not to take off; that is the question. And usually, always in fact, the answer is no.

It’s a dilemma most ladies, and some men, have faced at some point in their lives. We’ve all woken up looking like a panda because of forgetfulness, and fecklessness, equally. However, after speaking to Dr Ejikeme, Medical Director at Adonia Medical Clinic, we’re going to try our very best to always take ours off, even after a night out on the town. So, here are 5 IDEAL reasons you should always remove your makeup off at night too.

MAKEUP CONTAINS CHEMICALS

As much as you take the time to choose products suited to sensitive skin or made from organic ingredients, makeup still contains chemicals that can be harmful, especially if they’re left on for a whole day and night. These chemicals penetrate delicate skin, blocking the natural secretion of sebum, the lubricant and moisturiser your skin makes. And however many products you use, sebum is the one your face needs the most.

IT COULD CAUSE SPOTS

Is there anything worse than waking up in the morning with a huge spot on your face? Well yeah, there is, but in the world of constant capturing our lives on film, it can seem pretty apocalyptic.

The skin on your face is made up of pores, tiny little holes where sebum is produced and toxins are removed. If you go to sleep with your makeup on, particularly if you wear a lot, your skin can’t breathe sufficiently. When your pores become blocked, it causes spots and blackheads to develop.

IT MAY CAUSE EYE INFECTIONS

Our eyes are sensitive at the best of times, and the delicate skin surrounding them is too, and as such, eye makeup left on overnight is just asking for trouble. As we sleep, bits of product can get into our eyes, causing irritation and possible infection. Even if you get away without one, your eyelashes may become brittle and fall out; and no one wants that.

CONTRIBUTES TO AGEING

As we sleep, our skin goes through a renewal process, regenerating cells and repairing itself. When your skin has makeup on, it can’t breathe, which interferes with the natural repair mechanism of the face. Throughout the day, environmental pollutants stick to your face, which increase oxidative stress if not removed.

YOUR PORES WILL ENLARGE

Makeup left on overnight causes your pores to become clogged, preventing them from producing all-important collagen. Over time, they become more visible and clogged pores are famously tricky to remove. So, just say yes every time you’re on the fence of whether to remove your make up at night or not.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

Life is what happens when you’re making other plans. We’re all so busy, so intent on getting to the next place, the next step, the next level, that often we miss out on the more simple, beautiful truths that this big ol’ game has to give us. A little slowing down, a little switching off, and suddenly spiritual awakening isn’t so far away. Yes, the secret is all in a sense of streamlining, and with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to simplify your life.

BE YOURSELF

It can be tempting to try to be what everyone wants you to be (or what you think everyone wants you to be, which can be very different to the reality), but that won’t make you happy, and it won’t make life easy either. Pretending to be something and someone you’re not will only make things more complicated. Keeping up appearances, and keeping that mask on, can be a very stressful thing indeed. Be yourself, and you’ll find that life is much easier. You’ll have true friends around you, you’ll do a job you enjoy, and you’ll find peace. Life is much simpler when you make yourself happy first, and work on other people later.

GO ON A TECHNOLOGY DETOX

We spend so much time plugged in that sometimes we forget to log out. Mentally that is. It’s an affliction we all suffer from. A bad habit we’re all guilty of. A curse on society which needs eradicating. Okay, maybe that last one is a touch excessive, but mobile phone use seems to have permeated every moment in life, from interrupting our sleep to taking precedent over our social interactions. It’s time to change not only your settings, but your habits, too. After time spent with your devices out of sight and mind, you’ll approach life with renewed clarity and vision. And we all want that, don’t we?

BE POSITIVE

There’s only two guarantees in life; death and taxes. Add to that, this; that something bad will befall you, at some point. Bleak, we know, but there it is. Everyone experiences disappointment, upset, grief, and more. How we respond, however, is how we shape our lives. Where possible, have a positive outlook, one full of optimism and good grace, and you’ll find the world an easier place to approach.

DON’T BUY STUFF YOU DON’T NEED

Collect memories, not things, as the mantra of the millennial mouths. Buying ‘stuff’ you don’t need, that you won’t use, that you can’t fit in your house, will only drag you down; a constant reminder of money which could’ve been spent on an adventure or something more worthwhile. We’re not saying spend nothing. That’s implausible, and impossible. But when you do need to spend some money, look at how you can save in the process. If you need to spend big, look for cheaper alternatives: a used Mini, instead of a brand new one, a charity shop not a department store one….you get the picture. Look at what’s available on Freecycle, too, for that feeling of finding a bargain is an uplifting one right there.

CLEAR YOUR MIND AND HOME

De-cluttering your home is helpful, but de-cluttering your mind is perhaps even more important if you want a simple life. The two are inextricably linked, of course. Creating space in your office and home can be as simple as  identifying indispensables and throwing away item’s which aren’t. Decluttering the mind needn’t be any more complicated. Meditation can be a wonderful way to calm and soothe that overactive mind, as can practicing mindfulness, or yoga.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR TYRES HEALTHY

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR TYRES HEALTHY

Tyre maintenance isn’t a exactly a topic to set the pulse racing. Sometimes though, the most mundane subject matter is the one which requires the most thorough attention. It can’t all be bells, whistles, glitz, glamour and gold. So, if you’re here for sensible, honest, essential reading, then welcome. Proper car tyre maintenance could be the difference between life and death, and there’s certainly nothing tedious about that. So whether you own your own wheels or are renting a car abroad, here are 5 IDEAL tips for keeping your tyres healthy.

BE AWARE OF RISK FACTORS

First things first, prevention is better than cure, as the old adage goes, and this isn’t only applicable to human health, but tyre maintenance too. It’s important then, to recognise what risk factors are lurking round the bend, waiting to take your tyres down.

Heat can cause an expansion of rubber which affects alignment and leads to irregular wear and tear. Potholes should also be avoided – or at least slowed down for – as hitting one at speed can knock things all out of kilter. Finally, and most obviously, driving over something sharp is likely to lead to puncture; check your drive regularly and be smart by avoiding industrial construction sites, road maintenance areas and anywhere else where shrapnel might be discarded.

KNOW THE SIGNS

Now we’ve established a few ways of avoiding tyre damage, it’s time to talk about recognising the signs of harm. If your car feels bumpy to drive, or is making an unfamiliar sound, it’s time to check your tyres (see below). You can also visually inspect your wheels for issues; cracking on the sidewalls, abnormally worn out tread, and visible bulges and blisters are all signs that you need to investigate tyre damage further.

TEST YOUR TREAD

Tired tyres take lives, so it’s vital to test your treads if the signs above have alerted suspicion. The mantra of inflate, rotate, evaluate is a simple one to remember; meaning you ought to check the pressure using a gauge, rotate the wheels frequently and check the tread depth using the penny trick. TyrePlus have a nifty guide here to testing your treads.

SPARE A THOUGHT FOR YOUR SPARE

While testing your treads is essential, it’s also important to spare a thought for your spare tyre from time to time. You should check the pressure and for any damage as all tyres lose air pressure over time, regardless of whether or not they’ve actually been in contact with the road. It’s better to be safe than sorry, after all. If you’re in the process of buying a car, the spare tyre and all tools usually found in the boot should be present, correct and ship shape. Missing items is not only bad at face value, it is also suggestive of other discrepancies in the car’s maintenance and treatment.

ANNUAL ALIGNMENT

Wheel alignment is a primary safety concern when discussing tyre damage, so it’s important to check whether everything is on the straight and narrow. Over time, and due to heat, usage, bumps in the road and more, your wheels can become misaligned. A mechanic will need to check this for you, and it’s suggested this should occur annually, if you’re erring on the side of caution. And when road safety is concerned, let’s face it; you should be.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO GET A PERSONALISED PLATE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO GET A PERSONALISED PLATE

News just in: sales of personalised plates in the UK are on the rise. The DLVA saw an increase in personalised registrations of 12%, hitting an astounding 374,968 in the year 2017. About 800 private registrations are sold every day, which means big bucks generated for the Treasury.

In fact, in 2017, personalised number plates earned more than £110 million and since 1989, sales have raised over two billion pounds. More than 4.5 million registration numbers have been sold thus far, and the trend isn’t expected to slow down any time soon. So, if you’ve ever wondered what drives people (sorry) to get a personalised number plate, we’ve got it covered. Here are 5 IDEAL reasons to get one.

TO LOOK COOL ON INSTAGRAM

Nowadays looking the part on social media seems to be the primary motivation for doing just about anything. While there was always a crowd that wanted to express their personality through their vehicles, the new Instagram era has been identified as one of the reasons for the rise in the demand in personalised car registrations lately, according to many industry insiders. Lots of people like to show their new cars on various social media platforms, and private number plates are seen as a great way to gain even more social media reach. Gaining traction, it seems, is all in your car’s traction.

MAKE SOME MONEY

Private dealers who sell pre-owned personal plates are seeing a similar upward trend in the resale of plates as is being seen with new plate acquisition. High demand personal plates that sold for a thousand pounds in 1980 are now selling for up to a hundred times that today. For example, Robert Haverson paid almost a quarter of a million pounds for the private registration “1 RH” – and that was back in 2008. In interviews, he compared it to spending a lot of money on a car or boat.

At the top end of the market, private plates have sold for half a million pounds. Yet we know the market can go higher; Abu Dhabi allows for the selling of personalised plates and set the world record for the most expensive plate back in 2008 when a businessman paid 7.25 million pounds for the number plate “1”.

GIVE A PERSONALISED PRESENT

In a world where everything is public, everything, it seems, can also be copied. Imitation, when once considered a form of flattery, is now just annoying. Finding a personalised gift for some, unique to them and not available anywhere else, is a tough ask. A personalised number plate – initially sounding like a strange present proposition – is a great gift idea indeed.

Once you have acquired a new personalised number plate to use on your pride and joy, whether that be a motorcycle or even an imported car, companies can manufacture the physical number plate at a reasonable price. A style currently popular across the UK is 4D Number Plates, which can help give a contemporary look to any (well, within reason!) vehicle.

ADD INDIVIDUALITY TO YOUR WHEELS

We already mentioned the impact of social media on personalised registrations. Another trend in the world of peacocking is the purchase of personalised plates as a way to add individuality to a car without something as drastic as a radical paint job. It also serves as a way to update an older car, by giving it something new and novel, an added bonus being that putting on a plate that doesn’t include the year identifier for the year it was first registered.

There are rules, however, against putting a plate on a car specifically to make it look newer; you’re not allowed to put a Y plate on a 1994 car and then hope to sell it as newer than it actually is, for instance.

If you’re looking for a particular plate or want to see if the one you want is available, you could use a site like britishcarregistrations.co.uk and check their database.

SHOW OFF

The status symbol and wow factor also play a role in the recent popularity of vanity plates. The attempts to get number plates that resemble one’s name or simply paying the premium to own the plate that spells your name is driving (ahem) up prices today. A certain amount of novely value is definitely at work, especially as more previously banned combinationsbecame available.

Personalised plates are setting a record for sales and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. For some, it is a form of individual expression. For others, they are a status symbol or investment. Regardless of the reasons for their popularity, they’re generating significant cash flow, both for the Treasury and those who secured sought after plates early on.

4 REASONS CARPETING IS IDEAL FOR YOUR BEDROOM FLOOR

Editorial Team
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4 REASONS CARPETING IS IDEAL FOR YOUR BEDROOM FLOOR

Our bedrooms are where we spend at least a third of our lives; retreats from the world, places of relaxation, regeneration and, in some cases, reproduction. So it’s only natural to want to achieve the optimum comfort possible in your space, an effort which often starts from the bottom up. With that in mind, here are 4 reasons carpeting is IDEAL for your bedroom floor.

PEACE & QUIET

One of the biggest benefits of carpeting is its ability to absorb sound. Sometimes, just plonking yourself out of bed is often to make a rowdy ruckus with hardwood floor. Carpet also absorbs the spoken word and mechanical noises efficiently; so if you’re an enthusiastic snorer or bedroom screamer, embarrassment is spared. Equally, when the room fan or radiator kicks in, the sound levels are reduced and less likely to wake the occupant.

Another benefit of carpeted floors is that there aren’t gaps, warping, or cracks in the surface that can lead to creaking when someone steps on a particular spot. All of this equates to a lot less tiptoeing around, and more a whole lot more treading the boards with confidence.

WARMTH

One of the main attractions of the carpet is its insulating effect. This is why rugs are put on wood floors, to help protect the person sitting or standing on it from the cold floor below. When the floors are covered in carpet, the room remains warmer than one with cold floors; good for feet and the overall temperature of the room.

Putting in carpets is certainly more economically viable than trying to have heating elements embedded under the floor; making this one a no-brainer. And who doesn’t want a cosy living room?

THE FOOT CUSHION EFFECT

People often enjoy carpeting because it is soft to the touch, allowing them to be comfortable walking around in bare feet, making the entire room feel warm, soft, relaxing and inviting.

Some people are afraid to put in carpets because they’re concerned about allergens or cleanliness, and believe that soft furnishings lead to sneezing. However, you can get the same pleasant feel, insulating effect and quiet atmosphere with soft, short carpets, which are easy to clean with a vacuum, saving you the hassle of trying to sweep hardwood floors. And if you have children, they will be less likely to get hurt when they fall down or out of bed.

PRICE

Affordable carpets are typically cheaper than the cheapest wood floors, and surprisingly easy to maintain, too. You can find quality carpeting online in any colour or style and if a section is damaged or stained, it is easier to have the section replaced or recarpet the entire room than try to have sections of hardwood floor replaced. You certainly avoid the hassle of maintaining the floor with waxes and stains and can reduce headaches further by investing in a relatively cost effective, stain resistant carpet.

6 IDEAL REASONS EVERY HOME SHOULD HAVE PLANTS AND PLANT POTS

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6 IDEAL REASONS EVERY HOME SHOULD HAVE PLANTS AND PLANT POTS

Whether you’re a socialite or hermit, a slave to the office or work from home, a fan of adventure or a lover of domestic comforts, your home should always be a pleasant, productive environment. Regardless of the amount of time you spend in your castle, a few, simple, low cost tweaks can make it an infinitely more calming space. Of all the adjustments and additions you could make, the most foolproof and straightforward, we think, is the addition of some indoor greenery. And here’s why; our 5 IDEAL reasons every home should have a plant pot.

GIVE PRODUCTIVITY A BOOST & ABSORB BACKGROUND NOISE

A double-header here, but inextricably linked for sure. Having pot plants in the home is fantastic if you work from your domestic space, as they have been proven to boost productivity and focus. Studies have consistently shown that having a minimalist space bolstered by the presence of greenery is the perfect environment for content workers full of concentration. Obviously huge trees or unkempt foliage aren’t exactly conducive to a steely focus – clutter is the enemy of performance, after all – but some well groomed, small plants are great.

House plants also serve to absorb some of the background noise – especially high pitched tones – that seem to blight modern life. If you, like us, find it impossible to focus at times and block out the endless questions and distractions of 2018, then pot plants could be part of the answer

THEY LOOK GOOD

Styling your home with a little greenery can add that final flourish to your interior design.  Plant pots come in all shapes and sizes, and no matter if your house is big or small, there’s always room for plants. You can add a few mini cacti to your windowsill, place a tall tropical plant in the corner or hang a codonanthe crassifolia from your ceiling – the choice is yours. From classic brass pots to geometric patterns to natural white planters, a plant pot can also elevate your home decor and add a pop of colour to any space. What’s more, you can easily move them, put them in different places for a change and if you want to redecorate, simple – just add a new colour or pattern of plant pot to your room. These gorgeous pot plants from Albert & Moo are just the ticket – the ultimate home accessory. We adore the cool geo vibe oozing from the brands plant and plant pot combo (pictured above).

RAISE YOUR MOOD & REDUCE STRESS

We all know the aesthetic benefits of looking around the room and seeing the vibrant colours of pot plants. It lifts the mood, make no mistake. Think about it; we surround ourselves with flowers in times of both celebration and tragedy, to soothe us, to lift the spirits and to be a visual representation of our feelings. Well, research confirms these assumptions; having foliage and greenery around is great for emotional wellbeing. It’s sometimes down the the simplest of things; apparently having something to care for and maintain, however innocuous, brings with it a sense of self-worth and purpose. Gardening is often cited as an alleviator of depression, so it makes perfect sense to bring all that positive energy indoors.

PURIFY YOUR AIR & BREATHE EASIER

Certified by NASA, the air purifying qualities of pot plants shouldn’t be underestimated. They humidify the air and remove some toxins, which reduces the negative impact of dry air, as well as dust, on our respiratory system. If you’re an asthma sufferer, for instance, houseplants are a must. It’s not just the leaves and flowers doing the dirty work; microbes present in a pot plants soil also aid the air cleaning process. Not all plants were created equal for this process, so choose wisely.

GET RESTFUL

It’s said that the scent of plants in the home calms us down and promotes a restful night’s sleep, and who doesn’t want that? Jasmine and lavender come highly recommended – even reading those names brings about a feeling of inner peace in us…………zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Whoops, sorry, we dropped off for a minute there. Keep a plant in your bedroom, close to where you rest your head, for maximum effect.

BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

We all want to connect more with the great outdoors, to lay in a field, frolic amongst the long grass or climb a tree and stay up there for a little longer than is normal. We’re all also too busy to act on these desires; there are too many notifications to check, emails to reply to and selfies to pose for. Bringing the outside in, then, with pot plants, is that little nod to nature in times of urban suffocation.

 

5 IDEAL REASONS TO LIVE ABROAD

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5 IDEAL REASONS TO LIVE ABROAD

Many people flirt with the idea of spending a part of their lives living in a different country, only to dismiss the notion as absurd and unworkable with any attempt to put it into practice. All too often all it takes is a reflection on the comforts of home, and friends and family they’d be leaving behind, to extinguish the flame before it’s even been lit.

But in a world where barriers of cost, language and communication seem to be lessening with each day that passes, there’s no better time than now to follow through on those desires and experience a way of life that is sure to enrich your own. So, stop procrastinating and start being convinced. Here are 5 IDEAL reasons to live abroad.

FRIENDSHIPS

Living abroad, you’ll find people are drawn to you: you’re new, with stories to tell and a positivity you can only get from being on an extended holiday. You’ll form lasting and meaningful relationships with a bunch of people in the same boat as you, and with Skype or cheap international calls making it easy to keep in contact with pals at home, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds. 

CUISINE

Of course, in the UK there’s a menagerie of wonderfully diverse restaurants, cookbooks and culinary classes, but nothing beats experiencing food cooked traditionally in the country of its origin, preferably on the street, and in somewhere whose popularity is confirmed by queues of locals. Living for an extended period of time in a new country will expose you to authentic hidden gems, local cafés and boisterous canteens that a whistle-stop tour just won’t provide.

LANGUAGE

It’s something of a cliché, but there’s no more pleasant, effective way to pick up a language that by doing so in the country of its origin. Spanish haggling in a Barcelona market, or singing German drinking songs at Oktoberfest, you’ll quickly pick up the nuances and garnishes that a textbook just can’t give you. Consider too the options for classes and programmes that’ll give you a head start in your learning, so you can take what you’ve pre-learnt straight into the best classroom in the world; the street.

EMPLOYABILITY

It won’t necessarily be at the top of the priority list, but having spent a considerable amount of time abroad can actually do wonders for your CV, contrary to what people may think. Instead of showing a restless soul who’s afraid of commitment, it signals a level of independence, bravery, organisational nous, positivity, and ambition that employers lap up; you shouldn’t be worried that your decision will be bad for your career – it’s actually quite the opposite.

PERSPECTIVE

The unflattering term “Little Englander” probably applies to a great many of us, but breaking out of this label is simply a matter of exposing yourself (not literally, you could see serious jail time for that) to different cultures and attitudes to life in order to broaden your perspective.

A year in Norway and you’ll never complain about the British snow again, while six months spent in the US will have you appreciating the subtleties of your traditional hometown pub that little bit more. Having a rational, relative perception of the world is grounding and gratifying for your mentality and mindset. So stop making excuses, and get travelling!

5 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WORK LIFE BALANCE

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WORK LIFE BALANCE

Ah, a good work life balance. Much longed after and much fabled, oft cited as a key component of overall happiness, and most all, really damn difficult to achieve. Indeed, leaving ‘work at work’ in the digital age, where all of us are on and in contact 24/7, can seem like an impossible dream. But, it shouldn’t be that way.

Recent research by HandsetExpert found that us Brits are more likely to remember our office number over our partners. If you’re one of these people, then it might be time to address your work life priorities. So, for the benefit of your mental health, personal life and job satisfaction, read on. Here are 4 IDEAL ways to improve your work life balance.

LEARN TO SAY NO…

It may sound simple, but when put under pressure from colleagues, it’s not always as easy as uttering that two letter word. But it should be. Give permission to yourself to put your foot down, with refusal delivered in a firm but friendly manner, and you’ll soon notice people in the office are treating you with more respect, not less. If not, then a little reasoning goes a long way; quality of work, not quantity, benefits from learning when and how to say no.

…BUT DON’T IGNORE CALLS

While learning to say no is key, it is, however, important to maintain professionalism and politeness. Simply ignoring calls and turning your phone off might be viewed as rude or obstructive, and doesn’t get the message across as effectively. So, consider how best to tackle unwanted, unecessary post-work contact. The mobile phone comparison website HandsetExpert conducted a survey of over 1,000 people, questioning Brits about ignoring phone calls and if the boss is calling out of hours. It was found that 29% of Brits are likely to ignore or decline the call. Be one of the 71% and answer, but be firm in your response.

ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES

We think it’s completely normal that sometimes, during down time, your mind wanders to your work. You might even check a few emails, and that’s fine. What’s really important, though, is to establish boundaries with your employer. How you flesh those out is entirely up to you, but specifying no contact after a certain time, and no starting of new projects when you’re at home, is a good start.

Setting these boundaries should extend to using your smartphone or laptop on a broader scale, too. Put aside time for you, away from any screens, to enable you to fully relax.

WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER

A contributing factor in having to work late or at home after work is a certain amount of inefficiency at task completion during the working day. It’s important then, to work smarter, not harder. Stay away from distractions like social media and online shopping during working hours; draw up a plan for the day on the tube to work; delegate when appropriate; all of these seemingly innocuous actions will lead to less overspill of work into your free time. Result!

USE YOUR COMMUTE TO UNWIND

For those who have a long commute home, this time shouldn’t be spent catching up on work emails. Neither should it be spent staring into space. Use this blessed little window of uninterrupted sitting (if you’re lucky enough to find a seat, that is) to do something productive or relaxing. Read a book, play chess online, complete a crossword or learn a new skill; something which takes your mind away from the office and the train does the same.

5 IDEAL PLUS SIZE FASHION TIPS

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5 IDEAL PLUS SIZE FASHION TIPS

For the fuller figured lady who wants to flaunt their fashionable side, it’s never been easier than today. Plus size fashion (a bit of an umbrella term if you ask us) has changed a lot over the last few years and the shopping landscape is better than it ever has been before. From high street brands like Marks and Spencer who have just launched their new Curve collection to a myriad of plus size boutiques online, brands are finally proud to be putting curves back on the agenda. To celebrate, here are 5 IDEAL plus size fashion tips.

FORGET THE OLD ‘AVOID STRIPES, WEAR BLACK’ MANTRA

First things first, forget all those fashion rules you’ve learnt over the years. There are hundreds out there which are just plain nonsense, and the ‘no horizontal stripes’ rule is one of them. While it’s rumoured that horizontal stripes can make you seem larger, in actual fact they can enhance your natural figure and create more of an hourglass silhouette, depending on your body shape. Either way, if you enjoy how stripes look on you, there should be nothing stopping you from incorporating them into your style. They say rules are made to be broken after all.

TRY ON DIFFERENT SIZES WHEN YOU’RE SHOPPING

Think a size 16 is the same size 16 at the boutique across the street? Think again. Sizes differ from shop to shop, so don’t fret if a certain item isn’t exactly your fit  – size after all ain’t nothing but a number and we’re all different. When you’re trying on clothes, take several sizes (both bigger and smaller) with you into the changing room and pick which one fits best, no matter what the label says.

USE A TAILOR

We know what you’re thinking – expensive. However, tailoring isn’t just for fancy clothes. Alterations are a game changer when it comes to wearing clothes that are the perfect fit (in other words flattering) for women of all sizes.  We know that getting your clothes adjusted may cost a little extra at first, but the amount of wear you’ll get out of your ‘perfect fit’ clothes is well worth it in the long run.

FIND CLOTHES THAT FLATTER YOUR SHAPE

From triangle to hourglass to oval – not all curvy girls have the same frame. Like dressing for any shape, it’s all about emphasising your best bits to make you feel great. While the variation of styles and dresses available for women over a size 20 used to be limited to frumpy frocks, there are now a variety of plus size dresses in an assortment of styles and colours. Try out different cuts to see what suits you best. Also, don’t make the mistake of wearing oversized baggy clothes which will swamp your silhouette. Whether it’s your derrière or décolletage, if you’ve got a favourite part of your body, then show it off. Embrace your shape and don’t be afraid to wear figure hugging clothes to emphasise your best bits.

LAYERS WON’T MAKE YOU ‘LOOK BIGGER’

Despite what you may have heard, adding layers won’t necessarily make you look bigger: and even if they did, would it really matter? Layers can be a great way to add depth to your look, and also provide you with a way to accommodate unpredictable weather, without needing to lug a coat around everywhere you go. Check out whowhatwear.co.uk for tips on the best ways to layer your clothes this year.

The most important thing in plus size fashion is to find your own unique style, comprised of clothes which make you feel confident and allow you to express yourself fully. End of.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE MONEY WHILE TRAVELLING

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE MONEY WHILE TRAVELLING

Money makes the world go round, as the old adage goes. But how about; make money while going around the world? That’s a saying – and journey – we’d love to get on board with. It’s a dream that many view as just that though; unachievable, unrealistic and far out of reach. It doesn’t have to be this way; with modern technology and communication shrinking the world until it fits in the palm of your hand, more and more millenials are earning while burning up the track. So, with this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL ways to make money while travelling.

BECOME WEB DEVELOPER

If you know how to code (or have the drive to learn), then web developing while on the move could be the answer to your itchy feet. Building websites for other people has never been easier with software and skills acquisition available at the touch of a button. Instead of developing the wwws inside a dingy office in Milton Keynes, why not do it poolside under a tropical sun, cocktail in hand?

TEACH ENGLISH

Lots of tourists who decide they never want to return to England turn to teaching English to fuel their holidaying habit. While it’s not as simple as rocking up to a school and doing your A,B,Cs, qualifications and teacher training are available to give you the confidence you need to stand up in front of a class and explain the past perfect continuous tense with vigour and aplomb. A CELTA course (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is the most reliable, accepted certification, and can be studied at home before you trip, or abroad during it.

BE A FLIGHT ATTENDANT

As long as you’re not afflicted by vertigo or aviophobia and between the heights of 4’11” and 6’4”, becoming a flight attendant could be your channel into the world of getting paid to travel. Training is typically paid and on-the-job, meaning your adventure could start moving almost as soon as you set that ball rolling. So, what are you waiting for?

RENT YOUR HOME ON AIR BNB

So you’ve decided to set off on an adventure with funds put aside for the trip and budgets carefully drawn up? You could prolong your travels, for as long as you please in some cases, by renting out the property you’ve left behind on airbnb. If you play your cards right and manage your finances carefully, the money earned from renting out your place could give you spending money for your holiday. Marvellous!

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREELANCING WEBSITES 

Make the world your office by taking advantage of freelancing websites like upwork.com, freelancer.com, peopleperhour and fiverr. These platforms connect businesses and freelancers together from anywhere in the world. The businesses post all types of jobs from copywriting to editing and graphic design, then the freelancers compete for said job.

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